Description

This program simulates a realistic collision of a rotating rod with a floor (represented by the green block). The effects of friction are included in this interaction.

The initial conditions can be set by using the first six sliders. The sliders labeled x0 and y0 control the rod's initial x- and y-positions (associated with the center of the rod) with units of meters (m). Those labeled vx0 and vy0 control the rod's initial center-of-mass velocity in the x- and y-directions (units of m/s). Next, theta0 orients the rod according to the angle (in radians) formed with the horizontal. Lastly, omega0 sets the angular velocity of the rod, with units of radians/sec.

The alpha slider controls the elasticity of the impact. When alpha=0, the impact is maximally inelastic, meaning that the rod will lose as much kinetic energy as possible as it collides with the floor. When alpha=1, the impact is elastic, meaning that kinetic energy is perfectly conserved throughout the interaction.